Is nebulization effective for vocal cord polyps?

Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
Updated on November 19, 2024
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Vocal cord polyps refer to benign neoplasms located on the vocal cords. These neoplasms cause hoarseness, which is persistent, and in severe cases, may lead to voice loss or a distinct sensation of a lump when speaking. Clinically, vocal cord polyps are primarily removed through surgery. Nebulized inhalation treatments with medication can help reduce the swelling of the vocal cord polyps and alleviate congestion. Thus, nebulized inhalation plays a definite role in the treatment of vocal cord polyps, but it should not be expected to completely eliminate the polyps, as this is unrealistic and unachievable. Post-surgical nebulized inhalation can help reduce congestion and swelling, and actively aid in the recovery from vocal cord polyp surgery.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Vocal cord polyps inflammation symptoms

Vocal cord polyps are a relatively common otolaryngological condition. If vocal cord polyps are accompanied by infection and inflammation, clinical symptoms can be quite extensive, commonly including sore throat, a sensation of a foreign body in the throat, burning, and itching, and there may also be a noticeable hoarseness. Generally, if the symptoms of vocal cord polyps are obvious and the inflammatory response is high, this situation can more significantly impact daily life and communication. Therefore, it is necessary to perform a laryngoscopy to assess the extent of the condition. In terms of treatment, oral medication and nebulization therapy are generally the main approaches, with a small number of patients requiring surgical treatment.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Do vocal cord polyps require surgery?

Vocal cord polyps are a relatively common type of ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) disease. Some cases require surgical treatment, while others can be managed conservatively. If the vocal cord polyp is small and the clinical symptoms are not particularly obvious, conservative treatment with medication is generally recommended. Common treatments include oral medication and nebulizer therapy; if conditions permit, voice training can also be considered. Additionally, it is necessary to have regular check-ups to monitor changes in the vocal cord polyp. If the polyp is large and does not respond well to conservative medical treatment, surgical treatment might be considered, but regular post-operative check-ups are also necessary. (Specific medications should be used under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Why does vocal cord polyp surgery require general anesthesia?

Vocal cord polyps are a relatively common type of ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) disorder. For larger polyps where conservative treatment with medication is ineffective, surgical treatment should be considered. Currently, the main surgical procedure is the excision of vocal cord polyps under a supported laryngoscope, which requires general anesthesia. This is because the procedure is difficult for patients to endure without general anesthesia, as the supported laryngoscope is a type of metal tube that needs to be inserted through the mouth into the pharynx. Local anesthesia would be insufficient as patients might struggle to cooperate and tolerate the pain or nausea, hence general anesthesia is necessary for the surgery.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Can vocal cord polyps be treated without surgery?

Some patients with vocal cord polyps may not require surgery, as the treatment of vocal cord polyps is mainly divided into two categories. The first category is conservative treatment, and the second category is surgical treatment. Surgical intervention might be considered if the polyp is particularly large and symptoms are prominent, such as hoarseness or breathing difficulties. However, if the hoarseness is not very pronounced and the polyp is relatively small or the clinical symptoms are not very typical, it is possible that the condition could be alleviated through medication. Common treatments include oral medication and nebulization, accompanied by voice training. With conservative treatment, many patients can achieve effective control, and some may even experience a gradual reduction in the polyp size. Regular follow-up examinations are advised to avoid excessive use of the voice.

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
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Do vocal cord polyps recur?

Vocal cord polyps are benign neoplasms that occur on the vocal cords. Often, they are treated through surgical removal. After the removal of vocal cord polyps, there is a certain rate of recurrence. This is because the inflammation in the vocal cord area has not been fully controlled after the surgery. Recurrent and frequent upper respiratory infections stimulate the vocal cords. Also, inappropriate use of the voice, such as frequent vocalization and loud screaming, can damage the vocal cords and lead to the recurrence of vocal cord polyps. Other factors, such as diet, spicy and irritating foods, alcohol, and chili stimulation, can cause congestion and edema of the vocal cords to persist, leading to the recurrence of vocal cord polyps. Therefore, it’s important to be mindful of these aspects after surgery for vocal cord polyps.